The Matchmaker's Gift
Before I even get to my review, we first must pay homage to this gorgeous cover! If you look closely, you’ll note that all the little items on the cover play a part in the story.
Synopsis: Even as a child in 1910, Sara Glikman knows her gift: she is a maker of matches and a seeker of soulmates. But among the pushcart-crowded streets of New York’s Lower East Side, Sara’s vocation is dominated by devout older men―men who see a talented female matchmaker as a dangerous threat to their traditions and livelihood. After making matches in secret for more than a decade, Sara must fight to take her rightful place among her peers, and to demand the recognition she deserves.
Two generations later, Sara’s granddaughter, Abby, is a successful Manhattan divorce attorney, representing the city’s wealthiest clients. When her beloved Grandma Sara dies, Abby inherits her collection of handwritten journals recording the details of Sara’s matches. But among the faded volumes, Abby finds more questions than answers. Why did Abby’s grandmother leave this library to her and what did she hope Abby would discover within its pages? Why does the work Abby once found so compelling suddenly feel inconsequential and flawed? Is Abby willing to sacrifice the career she’s worked so hard for in order to keep her grandmother’s mysterious promise to a stranger? And is there really such a thing as love at first sight?
The Matchmaker’s Gift was an uplifting story of hope, a breath of fresh air (which I desperately needed), and it warmed my Jewish heart.
What appealed to you the most in this story?
Absolutely everything appealed to me in this heartfelt book! It is really one of those fabulous stories that has it all with a captivating plot, atmosphere, Jewish culture, history, tradition, family, a dash of magical realism and so much more. I can’t tell you how much I loved all of this sweet story.
And oh, how I was there and completely wrapped up in Abby and her grandmother Sara’s lives as they were told through dual timelines. Both women were so brave, and you could feel the power of their courage, love, and compassion coming through the pages. Plus, I completely devoured the stories of those Sara matched as she grew up and those who fought her along the way.
How was the pace?
The story held a steady pace and I never wanted to set the book down.
Do you recommend this book?
Yes! If anything, you have to read this book just for all the feels! I was thoroughly wrapped up in the sorrow, courage, optimism and integrity as I read, and all of it was infused with so much warmth. This really is just a big hug in the form of a book.
Thank you, St. Martin’s Press, for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.
